Shamanism and the Ancient Mind

A Cognitive Approach to Archaeology

Nonfiction, Religion & Spirituality, Reference, Antiquities & Archaeology
Cover of the book Shamanism and the Ancient Mind by James L. Pearson, AltaMira Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: James L. Pearson ISBN: 9780759116740
Publisher: AltaMira Press Publication: February 18, 2002
Imprint: AltaMira Press Language: English
Author: James L. Pearson
ISBN: 9780759116740
Publisher: AltaMira Press
Publication: February 18, 2002
Imprint: AltaMira Press
Language: English

Pearson brings a cogent, well-argued case for the understanding of much prehistoric art as shamanistic practice. Using the theoretical premises of cognitive archaeology and a careful examination of rock art worldwide, Pearson is able to dismiss other theories of why ancient peoples produced art_totemism, art-for-art's sake, structuralism, hunting magic. Then examining both ethnographic and neuropsychological evidence, he makes a strong case for the use of shamanistic ritual and hallucinogenic substances as the genesis of much prehistoric art. Bolstered with examples from contemporary cultures and archaeological sites around the world, Pearson's thesis should be of interest not only to archaeologists, but art historians, psychologists, cultural anthropologist, and the general public.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Pearson brings a cogent, well-argued case for the understanding of much prehistoric art as shamanistic practice. Using the theoretical premises of cognitive archaeology and a careful examination of rock art worldwide, Pearson is able to dismiss other theories of why ancient peoples produced art_totemism, art-for-art's sake, structuralism, hunting magic. Then examining both ethnographic and neuropsychological evidence, he makes a strong case for the use of shamanistic ritual and hallucinogenic substances as the genesis of much prehistoric art. Bolstered with examples from contemporary cultures and archaeological sites around the world, Pearson's thesis should be of interest not only to archaeologists, but art historians, psychologists, cultural anthropologist, and the general public.

More books from AltaMira Press

Cover of the book Lives in Context by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Legal Perspectives on Cultural Resources by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Surface Collection by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Anthropology and Migration by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Totems and Teachers by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Cultural Materialism by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book The Recurring Dark Ages by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Politics of Masculinities by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Handbook of Archaeological Theories by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book European Street Gangs and Troublesome Youth Groups by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Artifacts by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Presenting Archaeology in Court by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Du Bois on Religion by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Ancestors and Elites by James L. Pearson
Cover of the book Leadership, Mission, and Governance by James L. Pearson
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy